To My Fellow Designers: Understand What Your Client Wants
In a few minutes I would be linking up with a client for the first time, I've dressed up accordingly for my first impression. First impression is key when meeting your client for their first project with you. You want to show them that you are trustworthy, reliable, professional, etc.
Your image says a lot about you, the way you carry yourself and present yourself to others. Be prepared to bring a business card with you, a paper and pen for information you want to inquire about your clients project.
Start off with the most important aspects of the project like: What is your company and line of work? Who is your audience? What colors will be used for this project? Where will the project be published? Do you have any company style guidelines that you need to adhere to? How will we be communicating for this project? What is your deadline? What is your budget on this project?
Don't forget the most important part when working with your client, TRUST.
After your first meet with your client, go to your office workspace and think about how long it would take you to complete the project and what it would involve. Prepare an estimate for your client and take a down payment (milestone) for your work. As you finish the work, prepare a final copy to bring with you when you meet the client for a final payment and submit any files they may need for future references.
On your last meeting with the client, ask them to submit feedback for the work you have done for them and feel free to ask for any constructive criticism (this will make you a better designer). While working on the project, list the things you may have done wrong and follow completely what they ask for, don't be afraid to give suggestions but don't change something without their consent. Make sure to bring a couple business cards with you on your last meeting so that if they were really impressed with your work, they will pass your business cards onto others and give you more business, in the best way possible "Word of Mouth". Don't forget to always ask for referrals – if they were impressed, ask them to leave a review because that really helps your reputation and helps others trust your work as well.
